Never Say 'Never' Part 2

In August 2005, I went on my first missions trip to the Democratic Republic of Congo. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I knew that God had orchestrated the right people to be on that trip. I fell in the love with the children and the Congolese people. My heart broke for the hopelessness of the people and how they were disappointed over and over again by their government leaders. The hope of a better life in Congo. The DRCongo is one of the richest countries in Africa, but you would never know it by looking at their living conditions. Companies from all over the world have come to dig in the mines of Congo. They are taking much of the resources that would bring these people wealth, but somehow the people never see it. The missionaries Jacques and Johanna Vernaud invited a colleague of mine and myself to come back and work with their christian school and children's workers at the LaBorne church. Krista and I spent one year raising support and returned in August 2006. Our students at Maranatha Christian Academy donated thousands of items for us to take with us! We were blessed with toiletries, toilet paper, school supplies, food, etc. We were overwhelmed by their giving! Because of their giving we never had to buy shampoo, toothpaste, soap, etc. We had lots to give away to orphans, families in the church, and teachers & classrooms at the schools. What a blessing to give and to see people's hearts overwhelmed with gratefulness. Thank you to every MCA student and family who donated to the Congo Container Campaign. From August 2006 to August 2008, we learned French, built relationships, participated in various events in Kinshasa, worked with students, teachers, children's workers, and even tried caterpillars. We were under house arrest 3 times during the two years and learned about "the peace that passes all understanding". The peace of God is something that can not be explained. All I know, is that my security is not in government, police officers, or even the military.... but my security is in the Almighty God!! When you have no one to turn to and there is no one else but you.....YOU ARE NOT ALONE, but JESUS CHRIST is right by your side.
This beginning of this blog began in Kinshasa. If you look back to the beginning, you will find many stories and pictures of adventures, ministry opportunities, and various other events that I participated in. What an awesome God we serve! I thank God for the experiences that stretched me, built my character, and continues to take me out of my comfort zone!(more on this later...)